Isaac and Rebecca’s prayers
Gen. 25:19-26
Abraham died at the age of 175 years. His son Isaac, who was also to be the father of many nations, took over. When Isaac was 40 years of age, he married Rebecca. But then, Rebecca was barren. Isaac prayed to the LORD for Rebecca and Rebecca conceived. This happened after 20 years had passed. But Rebecca became worried as the children struggled within her. And so, she went to inquire of the Lord. And the Lord told her that two nations are in her womb and that the elder shall serve the younger.
From here, let us look at three things:
- Abraham was blessed by the Lord, to be the father of many nations. But Sarah was barren. In human terms, it was very unlikely that Abraham would become the father of many nations. But, God had plans all along, and the promised son was born to them at the right time. What What we expect and what God planned for us are not always the same. Sometimes, God takes us to the end of our abilities so that we may see his strength and absolute sovereignty over everything.
- As Abraham and Sarah did not have children, they made plans of their own. Taking things into their own hands, they made arrangements so that Abraham would have a son. But this arrangement only brought them more trouble. When Rebecca could not bear a child, Isaac prayed to the Lord for Rebecca. How different! God answered his prayer. It is always better to pray to the Lord and ask for His guidance when we are in doubt.
- Rebecca was having difficulty as she conceived. Troubled, she went to inquire of the Lord, and the Lord explained what was happening to her. It is always better to inquire of the Lord when we are in trouble, instead of swearing and grumbling about it.
